Overview

• The Hockey News argues the Sabres need a high-impact season from captain Rasmus Dahlin to contend for a playoff spot.
• Buffalo surrendered 3.50 goals per game in 2024–25, tied with Pittsburgh for the NHL's third-worst mark, with only Chicago and San Jose faring worse.
• Dahlin, 25, rebounded offensively last season with 17 goals and 51 assists, finishing nine points higher year over year.
• The analysis emphasizes leadership and improved team defense from Dahlin over pure scoring, noting realistic upside near his career highs of 20 goals, 58 assists, and 73 points.
• The piece highlights empathy for Dahlin as his fiancée recovers from a major health scare, while noting increased expectations tied to his contract and the job pressure facing coach Lindy Ruff and GM Kevyn Adams.